Integration of BIM and virtual reality in teaching construction site layout planning: an empirical study

Construction site layout planning is fundamental for ensuring logistics, safety, and process efficiency in construction. Building information modeling (BIM) and digital technologies such as virtual reality (VR) can support the teaching of this planning. However, there is a limited number of studies specifically addressing this topic, particularly with a focus on non-immersive VR. Therefore, this study aims to analyze how the integration of BIM and non-immersive virtual reality enhances civil engineering students' understanding of construction site layout planning, compared to traditional two-dimensional (2D) drawings. To this end, an empirical study was conducted with 15 civil engineering students enrolled at a Brazilian university, involving activities that included 2D project analysis and walkthroughs in two BIM-based models using non-immersive VR with predefined routes. The results indicate that although 2D drawings were considered relevant, BIM-based non-immersive VR was perceived as the tool that contributed most to understanding the site layout, improving spatial awareness, and supporting critical analysis of site logistics. As a contribution, the study corroborates the pedagogical benefits of VR integrated with BIM, providing evidence of its applicability as a complementary tool in teaching construction site layout planning.